Small firms should look to implement workplace rehabilitation schemes to help staff back to work, a new study suggests.

Research conducted on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions shows that more than 90 per cent of people with health problems can be helped back to work through a few basic principles of good management and health care.

According to the data, measures such as these could reduce long term sickness levels by up to 60 per cent.

Suggestions included in the review into vocational rehabilitation include making sure that workplaces are suitable for the needs of people returning to work.

This means incorporating a proactive approach to supporting return to employment and the provision of modified work if needed, the report states.

James Purnell, work and pensions secretary, said: "This evidence shows working can be an important step in people's recovery.

"We are looking at how we can work with employers to make sure people get the support they need in the workplace."

Recently, the Stroke Association urged small firms to help their staff deal with stress as otherwise they could end up damaging their health.

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